Clearing Success Story – Georgina, Harper Adams University

What is your degree, and where are you studying?

BSc Food, Nutrition and Wellbeing (this degree has now been renamed as Food Technology with Nutrition).

What degree had you originally applied for and where?

I originally applied to study Food Design and Technology at Liverpool John Moores.

What circumstances led you to entering Clearing/Adjustment? If applicable, tell us about the ups and downs of A level results day.

I didn't achieve the grades needed for the course at Liverpool John Moores, and was disappointed when my application was declined. However, my parents decided to push me to go through Clearing as I didn't have a back-up plan. My dad found Harper Adams, offering a similar course, but I initially didn't like the sound of it because it was more agricultural-based, and not what I was used to. However, they offered me a place and I accepted it, despite still being upset.

Did you do any preparation or research before results day?

I hadn't looked into any other universities because my heart was still set on Liverpool John Moores.

Where did you go for help and support throughout the process?

My school and my parents tried to help me during the period and were supportive, but I pushed a lot of people away due to my state of mind.

How did you find out what courses were available?

The Clearing website and the Harper Adams website informed me of the different courses on offer.

What factors made you finally settle on the course you chose?

I took the course because it was in the original subject area I wanted to study.

Did the university offer a Clearing open day? If you went, was it helpful and did it alleviate any concerns you had?

They did have a Clearing day but I didn’t go.

Did you find a place to live easily?

The university allocated me a shared house originally, but on the day of moving in I expressed my wish to live in halls to the accommodation officer. She was really accommodating (literally!) and understanding and found me a place in halls that I quickly came to love.

How has your time at university been? Has it delivered what you were looking for and are you happy?

After an initial two weeks of being determined not to enjoy myself, I suddenly found I had made plenty of friends and was having a lot of fun. I soon forgot about Liverpool as I immersed myself in my course and socialising. The course is broad and interesting, and I wouldn't change a second of my time at Harper.

I now am glad I ended up at Harper, as I have made lifelong friends and couldn't enjoy the course more.

How has your course supported or changed your career ambitions?

I’m currently on placement (all of the university’s foundation and degree courses include a placement year) working in a food business.

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